MSMS physicians offer summer safety tips

With the school year ending and days growing longer, physicians of the Michigan State Medical Society have released a list of summer safety tips for families with children.

Tips include:

1. Mind the mercury. High temperatures can cause heat exhaustion, illnesses or even death. Avoid prolonged exposure to heat by keeping children out of closed vehicles, and finding relief in air-conditioned locations when itís needed.

2. Use sunscreen. Sunburns can dramatically heighten the risk of skin cancer. Families are advised to use SPF 30 sunscreen or higher, and to apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.

3. Stay hydrated. Physicians recommend drinking a glass every 20 minutes during physical activity, but families also should stay hydrated while they relax.

4. Be savvy about swimming. Never leave kids unsupervised in water, even if they know how to swim. Make sure pools are fenced and latched, and prevent running on pool decks.

5. Wear bike helmets. Helmets work to prevent serious head and brain injury during falls and collisions. Make sure every rider has one.

6. Keep clear of bugs and ticks. Wear insect repellent in the woods and during the evening. DEET is best, but quality natural alternatives also are available.

7. Play it safe on playgrounds. Make sure equipment is safe before using it, and ensure children are not wearing loose clothing or hoods that can catch and cause problems.

8. Know how to work a crowd. Summertime often means visits to fairs, carnivals and amusement parks. Make sure your family has a plan in case you are separated, and develop a system for keeping track of little ones.

9. Donít park your kidsí brains. After a few weeks of summer, it can be tempting to let kids spend their time in front of the TV. However, this can stymie brain development, and there are no substitutes for real social interaction. Kids do have to return to school sooner than you think, so have a limit and stick to it to keep their brains active.

10. Be aware. The best safety advice is always to be conscious of your surroundings. Thinking ahead and staying attuned to risks†can prevent many summer accidents.